On a rainy Wednesday afternoon, our plane touched down in Honolulu, promising an escape from the unrelenting downpours we’d left behind in LA. Yet, it seemed our arrival had unwittingly ushered the rain along. Disappointed but undeterred, we boarded the transfer to our hotel, glimpsing through misted windows the majestic peaks cloaked in low-hanging clouds. As we neared Waikiki, a rainbow arched across the sky, a harbinger of brighter skies ahead. Pulling up to the Royal Hawaiian, the sun made a brief cameo, bathing the scene in golden light by the time we finished checking in.
Navigating the grand corridors, we made our way to the Mai Tai Bar, where worries melted away with each sip. Overlooking Waikiki Bay and Diamond Head, we savored our drinks as a local musician strummed an acoustic rendition of U2’s “Beautiful Day.” The afternoon unfolded in a leisurely haze of card games and music, culminating in a sunset stroll along the beach. Despite its modest stature, the Pink Palace stood out against the skyline, a vibrant testament to its personality.
The next morning brought an early awakening, courtesy of jet lag, but also an opportunity to witness the sunrise from the Surf Lanai, accompanied by the iconic Pink Palace Pancakes. The day was spent exploring the property’s rich history, from its glamorous opening in 1927 to its wartime requisition by the Navy in 1941. Roaming the historic wing felt like stepping back in time, a nod to the hotel’s storied past. For history buffs, the property’s guided tours offer a captivating journey through time.
The day unfolded with lazy hours on the beach and culminated in an evening at the Luau, where we were treated to a mesmerizing showcase of Hawaiian culture and tradition. The following day, we ventured to the North Shore to witness the Hurley Pro Sunset Beach competition, marveling at the skill of surfers tackling towering waves. Returning to Waikiki, we dined beneath the sprawling branches of a centuries-old banyan tree, adjacent to the Moana Surfrider, the oldest hotel on Waikiki Beach, steeped in the lore of its legendary guests.
Our final morning found us basking in the splendor of the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort’s infinity pool, a serene oasis overlooking the bay. With all three properties conveniently located and part of the Marriott family, we enjoyed a seamless transition between experiences, each offering its own unique charm. For those seeking a slice of paradise in Hawaii, these properties beckon with their blend of luxury and heritage, promising an unforgettable escape.
As luxury travelers seek to optimize every aspect of their journeys, the landscape of travel accessories continues to evolve. With the advent of new technologies and thoughtful designs, discerning globetrotters can now enhance their travel experiences like never before. From maximizing packing efficiency to ensuring comfort and relaxation during long-haul flights, here are the top innovative essentials for luxury travelers in 2024:
Experience a revolution in packing with compression packing cubes. While traditional packing cubes offer organization, compression cubes take it a step further by maximizing packing space. The set of four cubes from Bagail not only keeps your belongings neat and tidy but also saves up to 60 percent of space in your luggage. Whether you’re packing bulky winter sweaters or lighter gear, these cubes ensure efficient use of space while maintaining organization.
Bid farewell to uncomfortable flights with a memory foam neck pillow. Unlike traditional plush pillows, this innovative option from Napfun provides superior support from all angles, ensuring a restful sleep during overnight flights. Crafted with ultra-soft material, it offers unparalleled comfort while remaining packable and convenient for travel. Say goodbye to neck strain and hello to a superior in-flight experience in 2024.
Stay hydrated without breaking the bank or compromising on cleanliness with a collapsible water bottle. Fill it up at a fountain before boarding to ensure access to clean water throughout your journey. Leakproof and packable, it’s the perfect solution for maintaining hydration during flights and sightseeing adventures alike. Embrace convenience and sustainability with this essential travel companion.
Preempt swelling and discomfort during long flights with compression socks. This best-selling set from Charmking promotes sufficient blood flow while keeping your feet insulated and cozy. With over 48,200 five-star ratings, these socks are praised for their comfort and versatility, making them an essential addition to your travel wardrobe. Invest in your comfort and well-being on long-haul flights in 2024.
Enjoy hands-free entertainment during flights with an adjustable phone mount. Simply clip it onto your tray table to watch your favorite movies or shows at a comfortable angle. No more holding your phone for hours or struggling to find a suitable position for viewing. Make every flight feel like first class with this convenient accessory.
Block out light and ensure a peaceful sleep with a contoured eye mask. Unlike regular masks, this innovative design provides comfort without feeling compressive against your face. With a sale offering 62 percent off, there’s no better time to invest in a restful night’s sleep during your travels.
When we talk about “The Stuff of Legends,” it has to start somewhere, so why not with you, and why not here, in the two most exceptional 5-star castle hotels in all of Ireland on one magical trip? These ancient seats of history and power turned elegant lands of luxury have joined their might for a gentler purpose: Indulgent, inclusive, and immersive travel, only through Brendan Vacations, the Celtic Experts.
This is how you truly experience the royal treatment. Few things compare to a luxury vacation stay in one of these castles. These are places with deep histories complimented by equally legendary hospitality, beautiful estates filled with activities to suit any of your needs, with indulgent gourmet dining, tranquil spas, and character at every turn. Driven by pride of place, and a sense of purpose, this is where you come to take your seat at the highest degree of luxury.
One contemporary, one classic, both offering immersive comforts within their walls and elegant escapes on the grounds. Nothing is out of reach.
A stay in one of Europe’s finest authentic castle hotels, it has married the original structures into an inspired and chicly modern stay abounding with the comforts of traditional Irish hospitality. Relax next to crackling fires, play on champion golf courses, and enjoy outdoor activities and fine dining.
Once the home of brewing royalty, the Guinness family, this is the ultimate Castle Experience to discover the West of Ireland. Unrivaled service, warm Irish hospitality, and five-star luxury await at this 350-acre jewel of the Red Carnation Hotel Collection.
Contact your travel advisor to book your Legendary Castle Stays with Brendan Vacations today.
What happens here is too big to stay here. Introducing Utopia of the Seas SM — the ship that’s totally transforming weekends for good. We’re talking bigger flavors. Bolder play. And better chill days than you’ve ever imagined. No craving goes unsatisfied with over 40 ways to dine and drink. Surfside SM neighborhood brings bolder bonding and all-day play for the whole family. New chart-topping showstoppers blow your mind on stage, ice, water and air. You’ll earn bragging rights daily with seventeen adrenaline-pumping slides, and pool hop till you drop with countless ways to make a splash — onboard and onshore at the award-winning private island Perfect Day at CocoCay.
This is not a routine recharge. This is the World’s Biggest Weekend. Utopia of the Seas arrives in Port Canaveral July 2024.
Lost Dunes SM Utopia of the Seas
Splashaway Bay
As the world leader in Luxury Small Group Journeys, Luxury Gold is redefining the New Golden Age of Travel. With the finest end-to-end travel experience, you will be spoiled with high-end experiences in magnificent environments. Curated exclusively for you.
Discover under-the-radar history, undiscovered artisans, and connections to the humanity and culture of your destination thanks to your 24/7 Travel Concierge. They combine local knowledge with the ultimate black book of contacts to customize your journey.
Enjoy glamorous properties, magnificent locations, and outstanding service. Belmond, JW Marriot, Intercontinental, and Red Carnation Hotels are just a few of our trusted partners. Excellence begins the moment you wake up and continues through each decadent night’s rest.
Enjoy gastronomic sensations on every journey. Exquisite surroundings and impeccable service bring a side of wonder that makes every meal an unrivaled experience. Variety is on the menu. Dining options infused with discovery and adventure.
Every journey has its highlights but very few can craft them like this. Our journeys promise a unique perspective on the bucket list items or local insights that capture your heart. Enjoy rare insights into the world’s most majestic landmarks, with personal anecdotes from those in the know.
Your bespoke travel experience awaits. One-to-one attention within an intimate setting of an average of 20 guests. Contact your travel advisor for more information on how to book a Luxury Gold Small Group Journey.
Please contact your ALTOUR Travel advisor or info@altour.com
For more than four decades, Uniworld has specialized in providing intimate and in-depth journeys for travelers seeking to explore the world’s rivers in exceptional style. It all starts with their fleet. Comprised of 17 small ships sailing the waters of Europe, Egypt, India, Southeast Asia, and Peru, each vessel is a proper floating boutique hotel. What does that mean? Every ship has its own unique character, with an intricate design inspired by the destination it sails. Uniworld’s interior design team pours heart and soul into sourcing original artwork, custom fabrics and furnishings, luxe handmade beds by Savoir®, and more.
And the ships don’t just look pretty, they also serve up delicious, farm-to-table cuisine worthy of the finest restaurants and are staffed by a passionate crew that can’t be matched for warmth and attention to detail. By the time you leave, they’ll feel like family—if your family learned to perfect your coffee order and deliver it to your table each morning.
As an all-inclusive river cruise line, Uniworld is unique in keeping the high quality of its inclusions topof-mind. No other line delivers the degree of luxury included amenities Uniworld does:
• Award-winning cuisine
• Unlimited pours of fine wines, local beers, and premium spirits
• A variety of shore excursions, such as immersive “Do as the Locals Do” tours, Nights Out on the town, private before- and after-hours visits to top sites, active “Let’s Go” outings, and sustainably-minded MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
• 24-hour room service
• Personal butlers for Suite guests
• Onboard gratuities
• All scheduled airport transfers
• Daily wellness classes and onboard gyms
• Onboard entertainment and enrichment opportunities
• Bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore use
• Special features by ship, such as an onboard cinema, alternative dining venues, or an infinity pool
Whether you are looking for the classic European river cruising experience or something a little different, Uniworld is ready to impress. You’ll find special programs available on select sailings, from Jewish Heritage itineraries to Generations Collection departures with kid-friendly perks. Uniworld’s Holiday Season Cruises offer enchanting itineraries through the centuries-old Christmas Markets of Europe, and a yearly OUT on the Rivers! cruise for LGBTQ+ travelers features LGBTQ+ performers, dance parties, themed events, and more.
Combining all the best of river cruising, land, and train travel, Uniworld’s Cruise & Rail itineraries represent the most innovative and exciting new way to see the world. Along with set Cruise & Rail itineraries, a preor post-cruise luxury train extension can be added to many of their itineraries. These rail journeys join an extensive land extension selection Uniworld offers, including experiences in Paris, Jordan, the Red Sea, and Ha Long Bay in Vietnam. Customizable extensions, arranged in partnership with Adventure World Travel, provide guests with a collection of extraordinary adventures and stunning accommodations in new locations around the world.
You deserve the best, and the best is with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises.
Please contact your ALTOUR Travel advisor or info@altour.com
Prepare for an immersive exploration of two of Europe’s most captivating countries, where history, culture, and luxury converge to create an unforgettable experience. This meticulously crafted 14-day self-drive itinerary offers discerning travelers in their early 60s the opportunity to discover the rich tapestries of Portugal and Spain, from the vibrant streets of Porto to the majestic allure of Seville.
Commence your journey in the enchanting city of Porto, Portugal’s northern gem famed for its historic charm and delectable wines. Spend your first day strolling through the UNESCO-listed Ribeira district, exploring its narrow streets lined with colorful houses and quaint cafes. Indulge in a private wine tasting experience at one of Porto’s renowned port wine cellars, savoring the rich flavors of the Douro Valley. On the second day, venture further into Porto’s cultural treasures with visits to the Palácio da Bolsa and the Sé Cathedral, before enjoying a leisurely cruise along the Douro River. Conclude your stay with a sumptuous dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, sampling the finest Portuguese cuisine paired with exquisite wines.
Embark on a scenic drive to the breathtaking Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its terraced vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Check into a luxurious wine estate or boutique hotel nestled amidst the rolling hills, offering unparalleled tranquility and romance. Spend your days exploring the region’s renowned wine estates, indulging in private tastings and gourmet dining experiences overlooking the river. Take leisurely walks through the vineyards, soak in the panoramic views, and savor the intimacy of this romantic hideaway.
Continue your journey southward to the idyllic coastal town of Cascais, where rugged cliffs meet pristine beaches and old-world charm abounds. Check into a luxurious seaside villa or opulent resort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering the perfect blend of relaxation and sophistication. Spend your days soaking up the sun on Cascais’ golden beaches, exploring the quaint streets of the historic center, and indulging in gourmet seafood cuisine at Michelin-starred restaurants. Embark on a private yacht excursion along the stunning Estoril Coast, discovering hidden coves and secluded beaches inaccessible by land.
Arrive in Lisbon, Portugal’s vibrant capital city, where a tapestry of history, culture, and modernity awaits. Check into a five-star hotel nestled within the heart of the city, offering luxurious accommodations and personalized service. Spend your days exploring Lisbon’s iconic landmarks, including the Belém Tower, Jerónimos Monastery, and São Jorge Castle, accompanied by a private guide. Delve into the city’s thriving arts and music scene, explore chic boutiques in the trendy neighborhoods of Chiado and Bairro Alto, and savor epicurean delights at Michelin-starred restaurants. On your final day in Lisbon, embark on a day trip to the enchanting town of Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its fairy-tale palaces and lush gardens.
Cross the border into Spain and journey to the majestic city of Seville, where Moorish grandeur, Andalusian charm, and flamenco rhythms await. Check into a luxurious hotel nestled within the historic center, offering opulent accommodations and breathtaking views of the city skyline. Spend your days exploring Seville’s iconic landmarks, including the Alcázar of Seville, Cathedral, and Plaza de España, accompanied by a private guide. Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the historic Santa Cruz quarter, where winding cobblestone streets lead to hidden squares and picturesque courtyards. Indulge in the passionate rhythms and soul-stirring melodies of flamenco with a private performance at a renowned tablao, before bidding farewell to the enchanting allure of Iberia.
Train journeys often offer travelers a unique perspective on the world, allowing them to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes and captivating vistas. From traversing rugged mountain ranges to winding through lush valleys, the world is adorned with scenic railways that promise unforgettable experiences. Here, we present to you the top five most beautiful train journeys that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
As if straight out of a fairytale, the Glacier Express winds its way through the heart of the Swiss Alps, offering passengers unparalleled views of snow-capped peaks, charming villages, and pristine alpine lakes. Departing from Zermatt and ending in St. Moritz or Davos, this iconic journey spans over 180 miles, crossing 291 bridges and passing through 91 tunnels. With panoramic windows framing the stunning scenery, travelers are treated to a spectacle of natural beauty at every turn.
Prepare to be awe-struck as you journey through the Canadian Rockies aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. This luxurious train ride offers several routes, including the iconic journey from Vancouver to Banff or Jasper. Passengers are treated to sweeping vistas of towering peaks, emerald forests, and glacial-fed rivers as the train winds its way through some of the most dramatic landscapes in North America. With gourmet dining, glass-domed carriages, and impeccable service, the Rocky Mountaineer promises a truly indulgent experience.
Norway’s Flam Railway is renowned for its breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes. Departing from the quaint village of Flam, nestled deep in the fjords, this scenic journey takes passengers on a thrilling ascent through steep mountainsides, past thundering waterfalls, and alongside tranquil fjords. The highlight of the journey is the stunning vista from the Myrdal Station, where travelers can marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Spanning over 5,700 miles and crossing eight time zones, the Trans-Siberian Railway is the longest railway line in the world and offers a fascinating glimpse into the vast expanse of Russia. From the bustling streets of Moscow to the remote landscapes of Siberia, this epic journey takes passengers on a captivating adventure through diverse terrain, including forests, steppes, and the iconic Lake Baikal. Along the way, travelers can immerse themselves in Russian culture, sample traditional cuisine, and witness the ever-changing scenery unfold outside their windows.
Step aboard the Blue Train and embark on a journey of luxury and elegance through the heart of South Africa. Connecting Pretoria to Cape Town, this iconic train ride offers a glimpse into the country’s rich history and stunning landscapes. As the train glides through the African savannah, passengers can admire panoramic views of rolling hills, vineyards, and wildlife reserves. With lavish suites, gourmet cuisine, and impeccable service, the Blue Train promises a truly unforgettable experience.
ALTOUR AIR makes it easy and hasslefree to fly privately. Our aviation experts will match your flight with one of 7000 private aircraft across the globe. We arrange helicopters, turboprops, luxury jets or large airliners…for business or just for fun!
Safety is our #1 priority. Employing the independent aviation firms ARGUS and Wyvern, we ensure every aircraft and crew meet our strict standards and experience requirements.
There is no membership fee or commitment period to use our service. With ALTOUR AIR you have total flexibility. We customize each flight from start to finish, working with you on every detail for a flawless experience every time.
Email your ALTOUR Travel Agent today for a FREE QUOTE on your next adventure or email info@altourair.com
Experience the ALTOUR AIR Advantage!
Serving the corporate and leisure luxury and mid-markets and entertainment community, ALTOUR has 59 offices and more than 1,600 travel professionals worldwide. In addition to travel management services, ALTOUR companies include ALTOUR Air, ALTOUR Meetings and Incentives and the ALTOUR Global Network. ALTOUR is ranked among the largest travel agencies in the UK by Buying Business Travel and The Los Angeles Business Journal ranks ALTOUR as the #1 travel agency in Los Angeles County. ALTOUR has also been consistently named to the “CMI 25” listing as one of the largest and most influential meetings and incentives companies by MeetingsNet.
Available exclusively through our agency, the SELECT Hotels & Resorts program features the world’s most distinguished premium properties. These luxury hotels, spas and resorts offer special amenities and VIPworthy privileges that upgrade every moment of your stay, including:
• VIP amenity valued at $100
• Complimentary breakfast for two daily
• Upgrade upon availability
• Early check-in and late check-out upon availability
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Best Available Rate, or better!
Available exclusively through ALTOUR, the Worldwide Hotel Program offers Best Available rates at more than 42,000 global hotel brands and independent properties. When booking a Worldwide property through our agency, these properties also offer benefits and rewards, including:
• Best Price: Up to 30% off best available rates at properties in 169 countries and 8,500 cities worldwide.
• Features and Amenities: More than 50% of properties in the Worldwide Hotel Program offer amenities such as complimentary breakfast daily, parking, in-room WI-FI and fitness center access.
• Rewards: Hotel loyalty program benefits are earned and retained by you, the traveler.
• Credit card guarantee only: No prepayment or minimum stay requirements, in addition to flexible modification and cancellation policies.
Contact ALTOUR today to learn more about how we can save you money when booking a Worldwide property, including trusted brand partners such as:
• Hyatt Hotels
• InterContinental Hotels
• Hilton
• Choice Hotels
• Wyndham Hotels & Resorts
• Marriott International
For more information contact your ALTOUR Travel Advisor or email info@altour.com
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Our advisors are your greatest ally to ensure a flawless vacation experience. There for you 24/7 before, during and after the trip, they can take care of every detail—including hotel, cruise, tour, flight, car rental and transfers—so that all you have to do is relax and enjoy your journey.
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